The job of a materials engineer is to research and test various materials to find innovative new ways of using them. This can include state-of-the-art nanomaterials, for instance graphene and phosphorene, or more familiar materials, including plastics and ceramics.

What does a Materials engineer do?

General tasks will include:

Researching specific materials and ways they can be used

Testing materials under various conditions

Analysing data using computer software

Creating prototypes of new products

Writing reports for clients

Finding the cause of any failures

Helping to create new manufacturing processes

What skills and interests should an Materials engineer have?

Written and verbal communication

Working interdependently

Working well under pressure

Computer skills

Being able to adhere to a budget

Excellent planning skills

What hours does a Materials engineer typically do?

As a material engineer you can expect to work between 35 and 40 hours a week across the ‘normal’ working week of 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday. Some overtime may be necessary close to deadlines.

What environment is a Materials engineer based in?

Depending on your exact role you will work in either an office, a lab or a factory.

How much does a Materials engineer travel?

Travel in this job is generally limited, with most travel concentrated on moving between different company sites.

How much does a Materials engineer get paid?

The average entry-level salary for a materials engineer is between £20,000 and £26,500 a year, rising to between £28,000 and £42,000 a year with a few years experience.

Those who then go on to become a senior materials engineer can expect to earn over £65,000 a year.

What qualifications does a Materials engineer need?

You will need an appropriate undergraduate degree for this field, so I hope you've been studying hard for your A-levels!